Jul 13, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Chelsea FC forward Joao Pedro (20) celebrates scoring their third goal with teammates during the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeenah Moon-Reuters via Imagn Images

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Chelsea Champions League Opponents for 2025-26 Season: Who Are They Playing, Where and When?

Chelsea are back in the UEFA Champions League for the first time after two years. The Blues have been handed blockbuster clashes against Barcelona and Bayern Munich, rekindling historic rivalries that defined some of their greatest European nights.

Enzo Maresca’s side secured qualification by finishing in the Premier League’s top five last season, edging out Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa. But their momentum didn’t stop there, Chelsea lifted the Conference League and capped off a remarkable year by defeating PSG in the FIFA Club World Cup final this summer.

Now, the two-time Champions League winners are targeting an even bigger prize as they embark on their latest European campaign. With a refreshed squad and Cole Palmer set to make his debut in Europe’s elite competition, optimism will be high at Stamford Bridge.

Our two fixtures from Pot One! 🏆🔵 pic.twitter.com/0pLDg1pp0R
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 28, 2025

Chelsea Opponents for Champions League 2025-26

Barcelona (Home) – A clash steeped in history, Chelsea will look to add another chapter at Stamford Bridge.

Bayern Munich (Away) – Another old foe awaits, with the Blues heading to the Allianz Arena. Notably, the Blues famously lifted their first Champions League trophy in 2012.

Benfica (Home) – The Portuguese giants will provide another stern test for Chelsea.

Atalanta (Away) – Always dangerous at Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo, Atalanta will test Chelsea.

Also Read: Chelsea Transfer News: Maresca Target Barcelona Star Fermin Lopez for Premier League Push

Ajax (Home) – Chelsea will face Dutch giants Ajax side at Stamford Bridge.

Napoli (Away) – A match against Antonio Conte’s Napoli adds extra spice, with the Italian coach facing a Premier League return.

Pafos (Home) – The Cypriot outsiders will be heavy underdogs, with Chelsea expected to win this match comfortably.

Qarabag (Away) – Chlesea face a long trip to Azerbaijan but they will again be expected to win this one easily.

Bring on the @ChampionsLeague! 😍 pic.twitter.com/D5VRi30JKI
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 28, 2025

Chelsea UCL 2025-26 League Phase Fixtures

Matchday 1: September 16–18, 2025
Matchday 2: September 30–October 1, 2025
Matchday 3: October 21–22, 2025
Matchday 4: November 4–5, 2025
Matchday 5: November 25–26, 2025
Matchday 6: December 9–10, 2025
Matchday 7: January 20–21, 2026
Matchday 8: January 28, 2026

UEFA will confirm the exact schedule, venues, and kick-off times on Saturday.

Also Read: Arsenal Champions League Opponents for 2025-26 Season: Who Are They Playing, Where and When?

Chelsea’s path to the knockout stages in Champions League 2025-26 season will be challenging. The ties against Barcelona and Bayern Munich will dominate headlines, but it will be their matches against Atalanta, Ajax and Benfica that will ultimately shape their qualification hopes.

Champions League

Chelsea

Enzo Maresca

UEFA Champions League

Abhinav Goel

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I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.